Abstract
This paper present a possible method for decommissioning of the horizontal fuel channels in the CANDU 6 nuclear reactor, a new device design concept solution with an operating panel. The device shall be designed according to the radiation protection procedures. The horizontal fuel channels decommissioning device from the CANDU 6 nuclear reactor is an electromechanical system with many freedom degrees, able to perform the internal components extraction and manage the storage into the waste container. The operations are performed under the control of a system equipped with a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and monitored by an operator panel, Human Machine Interface (HMI) type. The fuel channel decommissioning device ensures full radiation protection of workers and environment during the dismantling stages.
Highlights
For the installation of the fuel channel into the calandria CANDU nuclear reactor, shall defining the reference plans, measurements reported to reference plans which to comply the requirements described in the AECL (Atomic Energy of Canada Limited) specified documents. [1] [3] [6] [9]
The handling elements assembly can operate two positions in order to place one element front of the storage tube: one position is when the stationary tube it is in working direction for the movement of the cutting and extraction device; cable roller realize the cable progress or tightening of the cutting and extraction device in time of displacement; the operations are the extraction of the channel closure plug, the channel shield plug, cutting and extraction of the pressure tube; the second position is when the extracting actuator it is in working direction; the operations are extraction of the end fitting, installation or removal of the extended channel closure plug
The development of the fuel channels have made a significant contribution to the very high capacity factors attained in CANDU reactors because they allow refueling "on-power" status
Summary
The nuclear reactors are designed and manufactured in respect with the specific requirements of codes and standards described in the AECL (Atomic Energy of Canada Limited), specified documents for fabrication of components, equipment and systems, required for the construction and operation of CANDU nuclear reactor into the power plant. The decommissioning activities are: dismantling, demolition, controlled removal of equipment, components, conventional or hazardous waste (radioactive, toxic) in compliance with the international basic safety standards on radiation protection. The decommissioning device concept proposes an assembly composed by two main parts: the device itself and a flexible platform support for coupling to the selected channel to be dismantled. The fuel channel decommissioning device is an autonomous device designed for dismantling and extraction of the channel closure plug and shield plug, extraction of the end fitting, cutting and extraction of the pressure tube
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